Family members and friends of Auburn police officers held signs and waved at passing cars in an attempt to gain public attention Friday evening.

There was a common sentiment among the 18 people -- which included wives and daughters of Auburn officers -- who demonstrated in front of City Hall. They said their husbands and fathers are caught in chronic under staffing at the Auburn Police Department.

Auburn Police Chief John Ruffcorn was not available for comment for this story,

But Mayor Bridget Powers released a statement saying collective bargaining had started with the police union, and she was surprised by the protest.

“Our police do an excellent job keeping Auburn safe. However, we have limited resources and we must manage those resources carefully for the benefit of taxpayers,” said Powers. “We are at the table with our unions on these issues and cannot negotiate in the media.”